<p>Still remember when Globe Telecom first offered the SMS locally (for short messaging service, or simply 'texting') almost two decades ago? I believe it started out as a free add-on service for their GSM postpaid and prepaid subscribers. Texting was an instant hit it paved the way to the meteoric rise of cellphone use nationwide, and even earned the country's tag as the 'texting capital of the world.'</p><p>The new service was so popular then that it fueled the growth of a multi-billion telecom industry. What used to be a free service became a cash cow for the country's telcos, enabling them to finance, in part, their expansion and huge infrastructure investments.</p><p>Communications services have evolved since. With the advances in the capabilities of handheld devices, faster Internet connection and wider network coverage; we now have more services to choose from, at declining costs to consumers.</p><p>In fact, it seems the texting phenomenon has come full circle, as a number of mobile app outfits aggressively market their free messaging apps. Not only that SMS or instant messages are once again free, but voice calls worldwide as well!</p><p><a href="http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/08/31/top-messaging-apps-for-free-calls-texts/">Keep reading...</a></p>